National Park Geek Series - Black Canyon of the Gunnison
National Park Geek Series - Black Canyon of the Gunnison
While vacationing in Colorado, I was able to check another national park off my list. This time it was Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and it was definitely worth a visit. It’s very near the city of Montrose and we went a few minutes out of our way from Grand Junction to Telluride to visit this national park, and I’m so glad we did.
The Black Canyon of the Gunnison is a steep gorge carved by the Gunnison River. You can visit both the north and south rims of the park. If you visit the south rim you can take two scenic routes, the South Rim Road or the East Portal Road.
We visited the south rim of the canyon by way of the South Rim Road. There are 12 viewpoints on this road that you can stop and take short trails to different areas of the canyon. The rock of the canyon is black and the Gunnison River is turquoise blue making for a breathtaking combination of contrast and hue. We stopped to explore each viewpoint and I’m glad that we did because each one was unique.
My favorite viewpoint was the Painted Wall View; it looks as if someone hand painted lines on the walls of the canyon. We decided not to do the East Portal Road due to the limitations of our rental car. The road takes you down into the canyon all the way to the river and it’s very steep with narrow switchbacks. If you have a Jeep or something similar, it looks like it would be a lot of fun.
Have you visited the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park? I can help you plan a trip there.
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My name is Anna VanAgtmael, and I am a certified yoga instructor with a passion for yoga, travel, and connecting with others.
I believe in trying everything once. My values lie in collecting memories over things. Though we desire adventure and authentic experiences, naturally our fear holds us back.
My ambition is to inspire and encourage you to unmask your fears and jump into the unknown.
Anna VanAgtmael | Yoga Enthusiast | Trip Planning Wizard